In addition, every rebranded pharmacy in Sainsbury’s will be visited by a colleague from a nearby “buddy” LloydsPharmacy store to meet new colleagues and provide operational support.

LloydsPharmacy managing director Cormac Tobin said: “I’m delighted that today we can officially welcome our new colleagues from Sainsbury’s as they become part of the Celesio UK family of businesses and make a wonderful addition to our LloydsPharmacy retail network of stores.

“Sainsbury’s is a fantastic fit for us, we share similar values and aspirations and we are both passionate about excellent customer service and making a positive impact on the communities we serve.”

With the addition of Sainsbury’s pharmacies, there are now around 1800 LloydsPharmacy branches around the UK, employing more than 19,000 people.